FAQs for seafarers

We have put together the following seafarer related questions and answers to guide you through the Maritime Levy and fees process.

What has changed?

The following changes came into effect on 1 July 2019:

  • a revised allocation methodology for the Maritime Levy
  • no fees for routine maritime safety audits and inspections for domestic operators. These are funded instead from the Maritime Levy
  • a single hourly rate of $245 for all activities that are charged on actual time taken (and the basis for fixed fees)
  • no charge for travel time and costs (except where an activity is carried out overseas or at an offshore installation)
  • a single reduced fee of $368 for seafarer certificates and endorsements
  • a reduction in most ship registration fees.

Why is the seafarer application fee lower than before?

There have been changes to the overall charging structure. Some activities for which Maritime NZ currently charges fees will now be funded from the Maritime Levy. The new fee reflects the average time taken to process this type of application.

What does the Maritime Levy fund?

The Maritime Levy funds key elements of the maritime safety regulatory and response system and fees are charged for specific activities provided to individual operators and seafarers. The changes ensure that appropriate funding is in place for the next six years.

 

Related information

Funding review consultation

Maritime NZ consulted on proposed changes to Maritime Levies and Oil Pollution Levies over July - August 2023.

Funding review 2023

Previous funding review 2018

 

Contact us for more help

For more information:

Phone:

New Zealand (toll free):
0508 225 540

Calling from outside New Zealand:
+64 4 830 5800

Email:

seafarers@maritimenz.govt.nz
Someone from the Funding Review team will be in touch with you within 5-10 business days.
Tell us what you need help with and remember to include your contact details (email address and phone numbers).